Maharashtra News: Palghar Sessions Court Acquits 3 Men In Banned Gutka Case Over Procedural Lapses, Lack Of Evidence

Palghar, Maharashtra: A sessions court in Maharashtra's Palghar district has acquitted three men accused of selling banned gutka and paan masala, citing procedural irregularities and lack of credible evidence.

In a judgment dated April 25, which was made public on Saturday, Additional Sessions Judge A.R. Rahane cleared Balasaheb Mohan Dhumal, Jaiprakash Ramdular Chourasiya, and Tipu Ramugrah Gupta of all charges under the Indian Penal Code and the Food Safety and Standards Act.

The case originated from a raid carried out in June 2023 by the Assistant Commissioner of Food and Drug Administration. Authorities claimed to have seized quantities of scented gutka and paan masala from the accused’s shops.

However, the court identified several shortcomings in the investigation. It noted the absence of an original chemical analysis report and criticised the enforcement team for conducting the raid without police involvement, despite the local police station being only minutes away.

The judge concluded that the prosecution failed to convincingly establish that the seized materials were recovered from the possession of the accused, leading to their acquittal.

The ruling highlights the importance of strict adherence to legal procedures in cases involving banned substances.